Cartoon Network’s Ben 10 is extending its reach across multiple platforms and into more Australian and New Zealand homes this month.

Through new free-to-air partnerships with 9Go! And TVNZ2, the move will complement Cartoon Network’s existing distribution on pay-TV and SVOD platforms, including Foxtel, Stan, Fetch and Sky New Zealand.

Ben 10 is also available through the Cartoon Network Watch and Play app.

Robi Stanton, Turner’s general manager for Australia, New Zealand and Pacific, said: “Ben 10 has always been big, but these deals catapult the series to new heights.

“It returned to screens in this region in late 2016 and reminded us of the show’s fun and adventure. With these distribution deals now in place, Ben Tennyson, along with his sister, Gwen and Grandpa Max, is all set to entertain even more kids and families than ever before.”

Expectations are now high for the launch of the full collection of Ben 10 toys ahead of its June debut. Cartoon Network won 2017 Action Toy of the Year with is Rust Bucket toy at the annual Toy fair Gala Dinner in Melbourne last month.

Targeted initially at the UK market, this cross-category deal with Sambro will cover pocket money toys, creative play, stationery and backpacks and will see Ben 10 enter new aisles and retail channels.

The studio’s new series of The Powerpuff Girls made its return to Cartoon Network in April 2016. It has since reached millions of new viewers and beaten average audience figures across its new free-to-air homes including CITV.